Calls Made for Protection of Persons with Albinism During Elections

At an event held in Machinga to raise awareness about albinism, it was shared that over 220 cases of abuse against people with albinism have happened in Malawi since 2014. Most of these cases—about 62%—happen during election and campaign periods. This problem is mainly caused by wrong beliefs and harmful myths about albinism, which put people with albinism in danger, especially during political times. Speakers at the event asked political parties to show their support by making a public promise to protect people with albinism. They also asked the government to speed up its plans to protect them and to make sure there are more safe shelters where they can stay when they feel unsafe. People with albinism still face many risks, and there is need for real action to keep them safe, especially during elections.